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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, has noted from media reports the demand from the uMKhonto weSizwe (MK) Party for the recusal or appointment review of the Head of the Office of the Independent Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) Ombud Office, Judge Takalani Joseph Raulinga.

Mr Xola Nqola, has pleaded tolerance to people hellbent on besmirching the Ombuds Oversight Office. He said it was concerning that at this early stage some political newbies are calling for recusal of Judge Takalani Raulinga, as the new Head of the Ombuds Oversight Office.

“The calls and murmurs are nothing but weak attempts to besmirch judge Raulinga even before he has occupied his office. Politicians will do better to understand the role of the office as nothing but to enhance, improve and make efficient the provision of justice in our country,” said Mr Nqola.

Mr Nqola called on politicians to avoid besmirching names of professionals merely because they belonged to political formations. Judge Raulinga is an experienced judicial officer whose work remains without blame or deficiency.

Last week, the Minister of Justice, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi, launched IDAC’s Ombuds Oversight office to be tasked with solely oversight responsibility. Judge Raulinga is the inaugural Ombuds for the office, a position he accepted after years of serving on the bench.

Mr Nqola said membership to a political formation during one’s student days is different to being accused of corruption and should not reflect in anyway on Judge Raulinga. “Judge Raulinga worked hard, for years, in the bench and has nothing to be ashamed of as he prepares to take up the new role.”

“We do not have reason, basis nor motivation to doubt Judge Raulinga. If such, evidence as to reflect bad on his ability and professionalism must be provided and not the weak whispers being bandied around,” added Mr Nqola.

According to media reports, Mr Jimmy Manyi of the MKP has formally petitioned Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi to review Judge Raulinga’s role as head of the newly established Investigating IDAC) Oversight Office urging a review of the appointment on the grounds that it compromises the office's credibility and independence.

Issued by the Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Xola Nqola